The NSW economy is set for a $50 million boost from a bumper long weekend of major events, highlighted by the International Fleet Review and the NRL Grand Final.
NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell and Minister for Major Events George Souris said an influx of visitors would be flocking to Sydney’s restaurants, cafes and hotels in one of the city’s busiest weekends since the Olympics.
“Sydney is the place to be this weekend – once again confirming our city as the home of major events and Australia’s only global city,” Mr O’Farrell said.
“We’re expecting about 1.4 million people to attend these hotly-anticipated events, ranging from the International Fleet Review on Sydney Harbour, the NRL Grand Final and Parramasala Festival in Western Sydney, Spring Carnival Racing at Royal Randwick and the Manly Jazz Festival.
“The NSW Government is delighted to support such a spectacular and diverse line-up of major events.
“We targeted major events and tourism as a way to rebuild the State’s economy and weekends like this show we’re getting results.”
The centrepiece of the long weekend will be the International Fleet Review, commemorating the centenary of the Royal Australian Navy's arrival in Sydney Harbour. The celebrations include a fireworks extravaganza on Saturday night and the visit of Prince Harry to Sydney.
On Sunday the Roosters and Sea Eagles meet in an all-Sydney NRL Grand Final at ANZ Stadium. Next door, pop group One Direction will play two concerts at a sold out Allphones Arena. Also happening this weekend is the Epsom Handicap at Royal Randwick, the Parramasala Festival featuring Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan at Parramatta and the Manly Jazz Festival.
Mr Souris said the long weekend will deliver significant economic benefits for the State with hotels around Sydney close to full.
“The NSW Government has secured 184 events since March 2011. It is estimated these events will deliver $1.2 billion of visitor spend, reclaiming our status as the major events capital of Australia,” Mr Souris said.
Extensive road closures and special event clearways will be in place across Sydney from today.
An extra 5000 public transport services will operate throughout the International Fleet Review.
People should avoid driving in and around the CBD and harbour where possible, and if they do drive they should expect delays.
All the up to date information is at www.fleetreviewtransport.info
No comments:
Post a Comment